4 Best Rangefinder Binoculars For Hunting: Unbiased Reviews

A quick look at popular online hunters’ forums reveals just how divided the hunting community is about rangefinder binoculars. While some consider them, unnecessary others view them as useful.

Regardless of which side of the divide you fall, there is no denying the benefits of these optical devices, irrespective of their shortcomings.

So, do you really need a pair of best rangefinder binoculars for hunting?

Especially considering they are some of the costliest binoculars out there. Well, it all depends on what you want and need. For long range hunting investing in the rangefinder binoculars will be ideal. The reason being that rangefinders struggle with accuracy beyond certain ranges particularly the 1000-yard mark.

Also, there is the added advantage of reducing your hunting gear load. With all this in mind, there are certain things you need to know before purchasing a binoculars with rangefinder for hunting. These are the things I will be discussing in this article as well as reviewing the top rangefinder binoculars in the market.

Before jump into the review part lets do a quick comparison of my top picks!

Quick Comparison Of Top 4 Rangefinder Bino

Model	Image	Weight (lbs)	Max Range Distance (YDS)	FOV	Eye Relief
Leica 10x42 Geovid HD-B Laser Range Finding Binocular		2.09 lbs	2000+	331 ft	16 mm
Nikon LASERFORCE RANGEFINDER Binocular		1.93 lbs	1900	320 ft	15.5 mm
Vortex Optics Fury HD 10x42 Laser Rangefinding Binocular		1.99 lbs	1600	314 ft	16 mm
Swarovski 10x42 EL Range Binocular/Laser Rangefinder		1.94 lbs	1500	331.33 ft	17.3  mm

To help you make things easier for you when you go shopping for a rangefinder binoculars combo, I did an extensive research on all the important specs you need to know. The research entailed speaking with real users of these binoculars as well as experts.

Additionally, I have used some of the binoculars reviewed below. Thus, I also took into account my own personal experiences and needs as a hunter.

Rangefinder vs Rangefinder Binocular Combo: Which One To Buy?

Before I get the best binoculars with rangefinder reviews, let me first get back to the age-old debate of rangefinder vs rangefinder binoculars combo. This is a debate that I do not think will end anytime sooner. And my take is that it really depends on what you want.

For bow hunting, you are better served with a rangefinder since you will be aiming at animals at close range. On the other hand, for long range go with a rangefinder binocombo.

Of course, there are advantages and disadvantages of both options.

For rangefinder binos, the cost is a big issue. For starters, you invest a large sum of money on them. Secondly, should you happen to lose your rangefinder bino, you will lose both tools. Nonetheless, a these type of binocular offers more convenience and long-range accuracy.

A rangefinder, on the other hand, is lighter than a rangefinder bino. Also, rangefinders cost less as stand-alone devices. Nevertheless, they are not accurate in the long range. Also, they only do one function and still have to be used together with a binocular.

Overall, if you are a bowhunter and hunts from a blind, a rangefinder will be sufficient. On the other hand, if you want to target far off targets a rangefinder bino is recommended. Thus, it all depends on your needs as a hunter.

What To Consider Before Getting a Rangefinder Binoculars Combo

From my research, I compiled a comprehensive list of all the important specifications you need to look at when buying binoculars for deer hunting and rangefinder combo. These specifications are the main factors you should consider when buying a rangefinder bino. So, without any further ado let us get into it.

Durability

On average, rangefinder bino cost between $1000 and $4000. In other words, they are not cheap. So, if you are investing $1000 in a product, it must be one that lasts. Therefore, the number one thing to consider is durability.

The durability of a binocular depends on the material it is made out of. Most modern binoculars are constructed using a magnesium alloy. However, this is not enough to guarantee longevity.

As such, look for binoculars with a rubberized coating. The work of this rubberized coating is to protect the binoculars from knocks and bumps. Apart from a rubberized coating, the best rangefinder binoculars for hunting should be waterproof. It would make zero sense to have a $1000 binocular that cannot withstand a little downpour or be submerged in water.

Magnification and Objective Lens

Whether you are buying a normal or a rangefinder bino, the magnification and objective lens will be an important aspect to consider. Most rangefinder binoculars have a magnification of between 7X and 10X.

Ideally, since you will be using your binocular for long range glassing, you will want a 10X magnification of a 7x. With regards to the objective lens, a 10X magnification is best paired with a 42mm objective lens. Anything smaller than this and the binocular will have a low field of view. On the flip side, anything bigger than 42 mm will be too bulky to handle outdoors.

Size and Weight

One of the reasons why rangefinder binoculars combo are disliked by certain hunters is their weight and size. They are generally larger and heavier than traditional binoculars.

That being said, if you will be using your binoculars for long periods of time find the lightest. On average these types of binoculars weight 30 ounces and above. Thus, a binocular that weighing 30 ounces will be an ideal choice. Alternatively, you can use a tripod to counteract the weight of the binocular. For this happen to ensure the binocular you select is tripod adaptable.

Comfort and Ease of Use

Closely related to size and weight is comfort and ease of use. These two aspects will depend on the design of a binocular. To make it easy to use the best quality rangefinder binoculars should have ergonomic designs. This means having grooves which you use to grip with both hands comfortably. Furthermore, control knobs such as the diopter should be large enough to turn easily. Small knobs will be uncomfortable to turn especially with gloves on.

Maximum Range Distance

One of the primary functions of a rangefinder bino is to give you an idea of how far away a target is from you. As such, the maximum range distance will be another important factor to consider.

By definition, the maximum range distance is how far the binocular can give accurate readings. Some can give accurate readings from far off as 2200 yards.

However, this is according to their manufacturers. It is worth noting that a manufacturer’s information regarding range is not always accurate. However, a binocular that can give you accurate readings from a distance of more than 1000 yards will do.

Optical Performance

The range finding capabilities of a binocular will depend heavily on the quality of glass and prism used. Since they need to display the range clearly, manufacturers apply layers of coatings on their lenses.

Thus, the more the layers of coating and lenses the clear the readings are. The flip side to this is that by adding more coatings, they interfere with the brightness of the lens. As such, these binoculars are not as bright as conventional binoculars. Nonetheless, the difference is not noticeable and thus is not a deal breaker.

Price

As I have already stated, they are not cheap. Nonetheless, their prices vary. When shopping for one, it is wise to have a budget. Also, consider the features you are getting for the price you are paying. You can find binoculars costing $1000 but offer the same features as those priced at $2000. In such a scenario it only makes sense to go for the $1000 model.

For example, Nikon products are generally cheaper than Leica products. However, it is not to say that Nikon’s products are inferior in quality. On the contrary, Nikon produces high-quality products at affordable prices. On the other hand, Leica uses sophisticated technologies in their products hence the extra cost.

If you are looking for an affordable budget friendly compact binoculars under 200 then you can follow the link or you can consider much cheaper binoculars under 100  or  binoculars under 50 dollars.

Today’s 4 Best Rangefinder Binoculars

Now it is time to introduce the best binoculars with rangefinder. I have selected these binoculars based on their performance, construction, and cost.

Leica 10×42 Geovid HD-B Laser Range Finding Binocular

Last update on 2024-04-26 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

One of the priciest rangefinder combo binoculars on the market is the Leica 10X42 Geovid HD-B. A look through this binocular’s lenses, and it is clear a lot of cash was invested in it.

According to some of the binocular’s users, I interacted with; it is years beyond its time. And with its unique Perge Porro prism design, it’s not hard to see why.

This unique Porro prism design combined with a powerful 10X magnification gives you an impressive field of view of 342 feet. Its range finding capabilities are also a marvel of technology.

In addition to the line of sight distance, you also get information on temperature and atmospheric pressure.

Features

• Ballistic Compensation Technology: This technology is the binocular’s best-selling feature. These custom ballistics compensator gives you accurate holdover values to improve the accuracy of your shot.
• Pergo Porro Design: Leica seems to be on a mission to demystify the above-reviewed notion about Porro prisms with its patented Pergo Porro design. The unique Porro prism design offers long-range viewing.
• 10X42 magnification and objective lens: The binocular has a magnification of 10X, which makes it ideal for long-range viewing. This coupled with it’s 42 mm objective lens also makes it bright in different light conditions.
• Multiple coated lenses: The lenses on this binocular are coated with HD, anti-reflective, hydrophobic and P40 corrective coating. All these coatings make for a brighter image while minimizing distortions caused by light reflection and glare.

Pros

1. Is capable of range distance of between 10 to 2200 yards
2. It is completely waterproof and is actually submersible
3. It is durable and impressively tough
4. Comes with customizable ballistics compensator function
5. Comes with a unique and ergonomic design

Cons

1. It is extremely pricey but worth every penny
2. It relatively heavier than other binoculars

Verdict

When you think about Leica range finding binoculars, the price is probably the first thing that comes to mind and rightly so. This brings me to the question, the new Leica Geovid worth its hefty price tag? Well, when you consider what you are getting it is.

There are very few manufacturers that can match Leica’s mastery of optical technology. And as such, with the Leica Geovid, you are getting a binocular whose technology is nowhere near that of your average binocular.

Nikon 16212 Laser force Rangefinding Binocular Spotting Scopes

Last update on 2024-04-26 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Sure, Nikon’s ability to produce top-notch optical tools is unquestionable, but is the manufacturer able to maintain the same quality when it comes to rangefinder binoculars? This is the question I sought to answer when I was testing the Nikon 16212 laser Force binocular.

As you might have expected, the glass on this binocular is excellent. The image quality was superb as is with most Nikon optics.

So, what makes this binocular so special and worth a place on my list?

Well, it’s range. According to Nikon, the Laser Force has a range of 10 to 1900 yards. But based on my observation, the Laser Force has a range of 10 to 1100 yards. Now before we all accuse Nikon of lying it is worth noting that the manufacturer indicates the 1900-yard range as is for reference. Additionally, the 1100 yards range distance is pretty impressive.

Features

• 10X42 mm magnification and objective lens: Similar to the pricier Leica Geovid, the Laser Force has a magnification and objective lens of 10X and 42 mm. Thus, you get bright images at far distances and an impressive 320 feet field of view.
• ED Glass lenses: The lenses are made using Extra Low Dispersion Glass, which offers crystal clear images. Furthermore, the ED glass improves the range finding capabilities of this binocular.
• OLED Display: The OLED display of this binocular displays all the relevant data clearly for your viewing
• Multi-position-twist up eyecups: The binocular has a great eye relief of 15.5 mm and its thanks to the twist up eye cups

Pros

1. It is tripod adaptable to improve its stability
2. Great for viewing long range targets
3. Comes with an impressive field of view
4. It is waterproof and fog proof for durability

Cons

1. It is relatively a bit pricey but a great choice on this price range.
2. Weighs 32.9 ounces making it relatively bulkier

Verdict

To be honest, there is not much difference between this Nikon offering and binoculars from other manufacturers such as Swarovski.

Nevertheless, when you consider price, this pair of bino is a bargain.

It costs almost double less the cost of a Swarvoski model with the same features. Thus, while it does not offer anything special, its price makes it worth it.

Vortex Optics LRF300 Fury 10×42 Binocular LRF

Last update on 2024-04-26 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Vortex Optics LRF 300 Fury offers the same features as all the other binoculars in this list. But what sets it apart from the rest on this list is its size, weight, and design.

Impressively, the Fury manages to accommodate all the essential features without compromising too much on size and weight. Measuring 5.79 inches by 5.9 inches, I found the fury to be quite compact for a binocular of its caliber.

Additionally, it’s 31. 8-ounce weight cannot be compared to that of its rivals. Also, unlike other similar binoculars, the controls of this binocular are on the right and not the left side. Now, this might not seem such a big deal but if you are a right-handed bow-hunter it is.

Features

• Roof Prism design: As with most Vortex binoculars, this model has roof prism, which offers better light transmission for clear and bright images.
• 10X42 magnification and objective lens: Despite its size, the Fury has a powerful magnification and objective lens combo.
• Horizontal Component Distance Angle compensator technology: With this technology, you get the accurate and relevant data needed to make accurate shots. This technology works for both bow and rifle hunters.
• Line of sight mode: The line of sight mode gives you a fast and accurate line of sight distance measurements.

Pros

1. Comes with protective objective lens covers
2. Is fitted with a comfortable neck strap
3. You get a padded deluxe carry case included with your purchase
4. compact design
5. Weighs less than most of its competitors

Cons

1. Has a longer close distance focus of 20 ft
2. The distance is not always accurate

Verdict

It is rare to find a compact rangefinder bino. Thus, the fact that Vortex managed to achieve this with the Fury is an achievement in and itself. Furthermore, this binocular comes with all the features of other top rangefinder binoculars. Also, the fact that all controls are on the right-hand side makes things easier and more convenient.

Swarovski 10×42 EL Range Binocular

Last update on 2024-04-26 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

When it comes to rangefinder binoculars, there are very few that come close to matching the phenomenal performance of the Swarovski 10X42 EL range binocular. One of the high-quality rangefinder binos today, this masterpiece is in a league of its own.

One of the standout features of this binoculars is the aiming circle and read out. These two appear on the two separate barrels. The LED aiming circle appears on the right eye while the readout on the left. To make it easy to use Swarovski installed diopters on both rings.

Features

• Angle compensating program: This program is an invaluable feature as it gives you corrected shooting distance. Meaning you get two readings, the actual straight-line distance, and the corrected shooting distance.
• 10X42 mm combo: As with all other binoculars on this list, this model comes with a 10X magnification and a 42 mm objective lens which provide a field of view of 330 feet.
• Fully multicoated lenses: The lenses are fully multi-coated to reduce glare and improve the clarity of the images.
• Laser rangefinder: This binocular uses the power of laser aiming to give you accurate readings of up to 1500 yards.

Pros

1. Has a range finding distance of between 33 to 1500 yards
2. It is both water and fog proof
3. It is tripod adaptable to make it more stable
4. The LED aiming circle and readout appear on separate barrels for convenience

Cons

1. It is extremely expensive

Verdict

The Swarovski EL Range binoculars is not your ordinary binoculars. It has all the features of rangefinder binoculars and more. And while its price can be a turn-off, it is a well worth investment. This is especially when you consider all its amazing features.

Conclusion

Finding the high-quality rangefinder binoculars for hunting is never easy. For starters, different hunters need different kinds of binoculars. While the Vortex Fury will be preferred by a bow hunter, the Swarovski might not appeal to bow hunters. Therefore, when you are looking for the best binoculars and rangefinder combo, you must consider your primary weapon. Nonetheless, as is evident from the above binoculars with rangefinder reviews, there are binoculars to suit everyone.